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How to Unclog a Sink

By , About.com Guide

The Auger and Removal of the Waste Trap
How to Unclog a Sink

Auger Being Used to Clear Waste Line

© Home-Cost.com 2006

For clogs beyond the trap, getting to them is a bit more work but still fairly easy.
  • Place a bucket under the trap to catch the water that will come out once the trap is removed.
  • Loosen the slip-nuts at each end of the trap with a pipe wrench or channel type pliers.
  • Remove the slip-nuts and the trap. Note how the possible nylon washers are oriented.
  • Dump the water in the trap into the bucket. Water will also drain from the disconnected ends.
  • As in the previous step, extend the auger cable into the flat section of drain pipe. When you feel it against the clog, pull out about 12 inches more of the cable and tighten the set screw
  • Turn the crank handle of the auger with firm but gentle pressure.
  • Extend more cable as required until you feel you've worked through the clog.
  • Reassemble and flush the drain with hot water from the faucet to clear any remaining debris.

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